What happens when an American writer and civil right activist, James Baldwin invites Lorraine Hansberry, Harry Belafonte and Lena Horne to a roundtable discussion on race relations with Attorney General Robert Kennedy in 1963?

In celebration of James Baldwin’s 90th anniversary of his birth, New York Audelco Award nominated actor, Charles Reese brings famed American writer, civil rights activist and expatriate, James Baldwin to life at this book salon and conversation. Part of the salon series curated by Charles Reese, he will perform selected excerpts of the book, James Baldwin: A Soul on Fire written by the late Emmy Award nominee, poet and playwright, Howard B. Simon (1962-2000)

This literary salon experience explores the rountable conversation on race relations which took place three months before Martin Luther King’s March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom (premise of the book). This lesser known historical meeting was attended by Lorraine Hansberry, Lena Horne, Harry Belafonte, Dr Kenneth Clark, a young freedom rider, Jerome Smith and others. A lively conversation led by Reese coupled with a brief Q&A and book signing immediately follows. This inter-active blend of literary art, education and discourse is a feast for the soul and the senses.

“With humor, style and raw emotion, A Soul on Fire embraces its chosen territory with enthusiasm. All stage biographies should be served so well.”David DeWitt, The New York Times.

About James Baldwin:Writer James Baldwin (1924-1987) is counted among the most important and influential American writers of the twentieth century. His novels and essays explore the complexities and consequences of racial strife in the United States. Famous for his astute observations of American culture and his incisive examination of the psychological effects of racism and segregation, Baldwin’s most celebrated works include: Go Tell It on the Mountain (1953), Notes of a Native Son (1955), Giovanni’s Room (1956), Another Country(1962), and The Fire Next Time (1963). www.jamesbaldwinsoulonfire.com/

About Charles Reese:
Charles Reese is the Executive Curator for The Howard B. Simon Literary Canon, Original Actor from The Off Broadway Play, Editor and guide for the book project, lectures, workshops and special conversation series. https://www.facebook.com/TheCharlesReeseExp

About Paulette Harris-GermanPaulette Harris-German aka ‘Lady Paulette’, is an…Actor, Producer, Broadcaster, Presenter, Motivational Speaker, Compere, Event Organizer and Host. Founder of ‘Film & Cabaret on the Broadway’ a monthly film screening & live performance event, she is also a Producer of Film, TV & Radio.